Story 33 - Bucket and Dipper

Arguably one of the most foundational concepts of NHRI is that of the bucket and dipper. The metaphor of the bucket and the dipper serves as a powerful tool for understanding our emotional well-being and the impact we have on others. The bucket represents our emotional state—when it’s full, we feel happy and fulfilled; when it’s empty, we feel down and depleted. The dipper, on the other hand, symbolizes our actions and words—each positive interaction fills others’ buckets, while negative ones can dip from them.

This simple yet profound analogy teaches us that every interaction is an opportunity to uplift those around us. A kind word or a supportive gesture fills the bucket of a friend, colleague, or even a stranger, creating a ripple effect of positivity. Conversely, unkind actions can leave others feeling empty.

By being mindful of our own “bucket” and the way we use our “dipper,” we can cultivate a more positive environment not just for ourselves, but for everyone we encounter. The next time you interact with someone, ask yourself: How full is their bucket? What can I do to help fill it?

Embracing this mindset can transform our relationships and communities, making the world a little brighter, one filled bucket at a time. Hear from NHRI alum, Morgan Holen on how she embraced this concept during her role as Miss Nebraska 2021.

At project meetings this week, mentors were given time to make a drop in someone else’s bucket.

How will you make a drop in someone’s bucket today?